Icons are small pictures, graphics or symbols meant for use in computers, such as for menus, windows, screens and the Internet. Icons are used to represent a concept, function or feature in different ways. Like any graphic representations, icons enhance aesthetics. They convey meanings well even if language is a problem. Icons are great tools for self-expression, especially in instant messaging, and are used to represent emotions and identity.

Icons can also be understood by their categorization according to their design and association with the message. In resemblance icons, the image of the icon clearly communicates the function, the way icons for the Recycle Bin, My Computer or Word documents show what they mean. Exemplar icons use symbols to indicate meaning, like traffic symbols, and may not be as direct as resemblance icons. Symbolic icons may not convey clear meaning, but be abstract and imply deeper concepts. Arbitrary icons are chosen to be unique and may have no link to the message at all, like four squares connected to each other.

There are several kinds of icons which serve different purposes. Application icons are used in software programs such as Microsoft Office, as buttons and in tool bars. Website icons are used for navigation while using the Internet, like buttons displaying previous, next and back. Icons known as avatars are used in web forums to represent identity. Desktop icons are for symbolizing various programs. Icons are actively used in instant messengers to display emotions or actions like happiness, waving and kissing, and to display identity or status of availability like away, available, busy and so on. In some cases icons can be customized and changed, while others cannot.

Creating an icon requires both technical and creative skills. Purpose and location of use is an important consideration. An icon should not be very complex, lest understanding it becomes difficult. Cultural beliefs must also be considered for internationalizing certain icons. A symbol all right in one culture may be seen as insulting in other. Icons may be used as stand-alone, or with text links for labeling purposes. For instance, smileys are usually stand-alone, whereas next or previous icons are labeled with text.

Icons are small elements but of prime importance in any computer-related activity. Imagine a desktop with words alone and no icons. Icons aid in understanding, quick identification of a concept, and displaying emotions, as in instant messaging.